Business and economic news for the Santa Barbara region

Some Rules Lifted, Patrons Enjoy More Dining al Fresco

The bar Shaker Mill drew a big crowd May 22.

As some State Street restaurants took to the sidewalks May 22 when some pandemic-related restrictions were lifted, the commercial corridor looked just a bit different than it has during the past three months of lock down.

The eateries and a few bars that were open drew a fair number of pent-up customers who enjoyed the warm spring sun and cool breeze on start of a Memorial Day weekend. Inside dining also was available at some venues.

With some restrictions lifted, the weekend may draw visitors from Los Angeles and other areas for the three-day holiday.

However, if they do visit they still won’t find the same Santa Barbara they may have visited last year.

Some restaurants still relied on take-out orders, but some of those that already had outdoor patios expanded to the sidewalk and drew sizeable crowds as dusk began to fall.